Fitting for connecting two pieces of channel framing to one another

ABSTRACT

A fitting for connecting first and second pieces of channel framing to one another includes a coupling component having first and second coupling portions. The first coupling portion has a dovetail cross-sectional shape, and the second coupling portion having a dovetail cross-sectional shape which is inverted relative to the first coupling portion. The first coupling portion is configured for reception in a fitting groove of the first piece of channel framing, and the second coupling portion is configured for reception in a fitting groove of the second piece of channel framing to connect the first and second pieces of channel framing to one another such that the fitting sides of the first and second pieces of channel framing are juxtaposed and face one another.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No.13/966,897, filed Aug. 14, 2013, which claims the benefit of the filingdate of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/785,097, filed Mar. 14,2013, the entirety of each of which is incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to channel framing with atleast one additional side that is functional, and fittings for use withthe additional functional side of the channel framing.

BACKGROUND

One type of channel framing is called strut channel, which is used inthe construction and electrical industries for structural support, oftenfor supporting wiring, plumbing, or mechanical components such as airconditioning or ventilation systems. Strut channel is usually formedfrom metal sheet, folded over into an open channel shape withinwards-curving lips to provide additional stiffness and as a locationto mount interconnecting components. The side of the strut channelopposite the open channel usually has holes of some sort in the base, tofacilitate interconnection or fastening strut to underlying buildingstructures. The other sides (e.g., left and right sides) typically donot have any functionality. Thus, the strut channel really has only oneside for mounting components on the strut.

To provide additional functionality, two or more pieces of strut channelmay be welded to one another. However, this assembled strut channel istypically special ordered and cannot be easily disassembled or otherwisechanged, such as at the job site, to account for changes during thecourse of installing strut channels.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, channel framing comprises an elongate body having alongitudinal axis and defining an interior extending along thelongitudinal axis. The body includes a first side defining a continuousslot extending lengthwise of the body and into the interior of the body,and a second side generally opposing the first side and defining afitting groove extending lengthwise of the body. The fitting groove isconfigured for receiving at least one type of fitting to secure thefitting to the channel framing. In one example, the fitting groove has adovetail cross-sectional shape.

Various fittings for use with the channel framing are disclosed. Forexample, a fitting for connecting first and second pieces of channelframing to one another includes a coupling component having first andsecond coupling portions. The first coupling portion has a dovetailcross-sectional shape, and the second coupling portion having a dovetailcross-sectional shape which is inverted relative to the first couplingportion. The first coupling portion is configured for reception in afitting groove of the first piece of channel framing, and the secondcoupling portion is configured for reception in a fitting groove of thesecond piece of channel framing to connect the first and second piecesof channel framing to one another such that the fitting sides of thefirst and second pieces of channel framing are juxtaposed and face oneanother.

Other aspects and features are disclosed herein below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective of one embodiment of channel framing;

FIG. 1A is a perspective of another embodiment of a channel framing;

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the channel framing;

FIG. 2A is an enlarged front elevational view of the channel framing;

FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the channel framing;

FIG. 4 is a right elevational view of the channel framing;

FIG. 5 is a left elevational view of the channel framing;

FIG. 6 is a perspective of an embodiment of a fitting comprising aconduit clamp for use with the channel framing;

FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of the conduit clamp;

FIG. 8 is a perspective of the conduit clamp installed on a left side ofthe channel framing;

FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a perspective of another embodiment of fitting comprising arod hanger assembly installed on the right side of the channel framing;

FIG. 11 is a perspective of a coupling component of the rod hangerassembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the coupling component of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the coupling component;

FIG. 14 is a right elevational view of the coupling component installedon the right side of the channel framing;

FIG. 15 is a perspective of another embodiment of a fitting comprising arod hanger assembly installed on upper and right sides of the channelframing;

FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged bottom perspective of a fastener assembly (e.g.,a nut-washer assembly) of the fitting in FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is top plan view of the fastener assembly;

FIG. 19 is a bottom plan view of the fastener assembly;

FIG. 20 is a fragmentary cross section of the fastener assembly of FIG.17 securing a component to the channel framing;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged perspective of another embodiment of a couplingcomponent for a fitting for use with the channel framing;

FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the coupling component of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a bottom plan view of the coupling component;

FIG. 24 is a perspective of another embodiment of a fitting includingtwo of the coupling components of FIG. 21 forming a dual couplingcomponent assembly;

FIG. 24A is an exploded view of FIG. 24;

FIG. 25 is a perspective of two pieces of channel framing connected toone another in a side-by-side arrangement by the fitting of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a front elevational view of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is a top plan view of FIG. 25;

FIG. 28 is a perspective of another embodiment of a fitting comprising acoupling block for use with the channel framing;

FIG. 29 is a front elevational view of the fitting of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a perspective of two pieces of channel framing connected toone another in a side-by-side arrangement by the fitting of FIG. 28;

FIG. 31 is a front elevational view of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a perspective of the channel framing and another embodimentof a fitting comprising a rod hanger assembly which uses the fitting ofFIG. 28 as a coupling component installed on the channel framing;

FIG. 33 is a right elevational view of FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a front elevational view of FIG. 32;

FIG. 35 is a bottom plan view of the FIG. 32;

FIG. 36 is an assembly of two rod hanger assemblies of FIG. 32, with alower rod hanger assembly depending from an upper rod hanger assemblyand each rod hanger assembly includes two pieces of channel framingsecured thereto;

FIG. 37 is a perspective of two pieces of channel framing connected toone another in a side-by-side arrangement by another embodiment of afitting;

FIG. 38 is a front elevational view of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a left elevational view of FIG. 37;

FIG. 40 is a right elevational view of FIG. 37;

FIG. 41 is an enlarged perspective of the fitting of FIG. 37;

FIG. 42 is a perspective of another embodiment of a fitting for use withthe channel framing;

FIG. 43 is a front elevational view of the fitting of FIG. 42;

FIG. 44 is a perspective of an upper (or outer) component of the fittingof FIG. 42;

FIG. 45 is a front elevational view of the upper (or outer) component ofFIG. 44;

FIG. 46 is a perspective of a lower (or inner) component of the fittingof FIG. 42;

FIG. 47 is a front elevational view of the lower (or inner) component ofthe FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a right side perspective of two pieces of channel framingconnected to one another in a side-by-side arrangement by the fitting ofFIG. 42;

FIG. 49 is a left side perspective of two pieces of channel framingconnected to one another in a side-by-side arrangement by the fitting ofFIG. 42;

FIG. 50 is a perspective of another embodiment of a fitting holding twoframing channels in side-by-side relation to one another;

FIG. 51 is perspective of the fitting of FIG. 50;

FIG. 52 is a bottom plan of the fitting of FIG. 50;

FIG. 53 is a side elevation of the fitting of FIG. 50;

FIG. 54 is another perspective of the fitting of FIG. 50;

FIG. 55 is a perspective of a cross section of the fitting of FIG. 50taken in a plane including line 55-55 on FIG. 52;

FIG. 56 is a perspective of another embodiment of a fitting holding twoframing channels in side-by-side relation to one another;

FIG. 57 is perspective of the fitting of FIG. 56;

FIG. 58 is another perspective of the fitting of FIG. 56;

FIG. 59 is a front elevation of the fitting of FIG. 56;

FIG. 60 is a perspective of another embodiment of a hanger assembly;

FIG. 61 is a side elevation of a cross section of the hanger assembly ofFIG. 60;

FIG. 62 is a perspective of the cross section of FIG. 61;

FIG. 63 is a perspective of a fitting of the hanger assembly of FIG. 60;

FIG. 64 is a side elevation of a cross section of one component of thefitting of FIG. 63 taken in a transverse plane including one of a pairof dimples thereon;

FIG. 65 is a side elevation a cross section of another component of thefitting of FIG. 63 taken in a transverse plane including one of a pairof dimples thereon;

FIG. 66 is a side elevation of a cross section of the fitting of FIG. 63taken in a plane including corresponding dimples on the components ofthe fitting;

FIGS. 67-69 illustrate the steps in a sequence of securing the fittingof FIG. 63 to the channel framing;

FIG. 70 is a perspective of another embodiment of a hanger assembly;

FIG. 71 is a perspective of another embodiment of a hanger assembly;

FIG. 72 is a side elevation of a cross section of the hanger assembly ofFIG. 71 taken in a transverse plane including the center of a threadedrod of the assembly;

FIG. 73 is a perspective of another embodiment of a fitting includingtwo of the coupling components of FIG. 21 forming a dual couplingcomponent assembly;

FIG. 74 is a side elevation of the dual coupling component assembly ofFIG. 73;

FIG. 75 is another perspective of the dual coupling component assemblyof FIG. 73

FIG. 76 is a perspective of two pieces of channel framing connected toone another in a side-by-side arrangement by the fitting of FIG. 73;

FIG. 77 is a side elevation of the two pieces of channel framingillustrated in FIG. 76; and

FIG. 78 is a fragmentary perspective of the two pieces of channelframing illustrated in FIG. 76 with portions of the channel framingsremoved to show internal features.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to FIGS. 1-5, an embodiment of channel framing constructedaccording to the teachings of the present disclosure is generallyindicated at reference numeral 10. Suitable channel framing 10 accordingto the teachings of the present disclosure may be constructed for use inmany different fields, industries, and applications, including, but notlimited to, safety grating industry, spring steel fastener industry,cable trays and ladders, pipe hangers, solar industry, racks andrunways, electrical enclosures, seismic industry, and rooftop supports.

The channel framing 10 has an elongate body, generally designated 11,with a generally square or rectangular cross-sectional shape having foursides and a longitudinal axis A (FIG. 2) extending along the length L1(FIG. 3) of the body. As illustrated, the body 11 has an upper side 12,a lower side 14, a right side 16, and a left side 18 (each indicatedgenerally), although the respective relative locations of the respectivesides will depend on the orientation of the channel framing in use. Theupper side 12 (or slotted side) defines a continuous slot 19 (i.e., theupper side is open) having a width W1 (FIG. 2A). The upper side 12 hasoutside surfaces 13 on either side of the slot 19, and inwardly (ordownwardly) depending lips 20 leading to an open interior 22 of thechannel framing 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the lower, right and left sides14, 16, 18, respectively, defines a fitting groove 26 having a length L2(FIG. 3) extending lengthwise of the body 11 (e.g., along the entirelength L1 of the body), and a depth D1 (FIG. 2A) extending generallytoward the longitudinal axis A of the body. In the illustratedembodiment, the fitting grooves 26 have substantially identicalcross-sectional shapes and dimensions. In another embodiment, at leastthe side (e.g., lower side 14) opposite the slotted side (e.g., upperside 12) defines a fitting groove 26, while the other two sides (e.g.,right and left side 16, 18) may or may not define fitting grooves. Anexample of such a channel framing is generally indicated at 10′ in FIG.1A. The upper or slotted side 12′ is the same as upper side 12 of thechannel framing 10 in FIG. 1, and the lower side 14′ and the fittinggroove 26′ are the same as the lower side 14 and the fitting groove 26of the channel framing in FIG. 1. In addition to the right and left side16′, 18′ being free from grooves, the other difference between thechannel framing 10′ and the channel framing 10 are the heightwisedimensions between the upper and lower sides 12, 14 and 12′, 14′. In thepresent channel framing 10′, the height H₂ is less than the width W, andin particular, the height may be 50% less than the width (e.g., theheight may be 25 mm and the width may be 50 mm). The channel framing 10′may have other dimensions.

Referring back to channel framing 10, as indicated in FIG. 2, eachfitting groove 26 is defined by opposing side walls 28 extendinginwardly from generally planar outer surfaces 32 of the correspondingside 14, 16, 18 and toward the interior 22 of the body 11. The sidewalls 28 extend to a bottom wall 30 that spans between and interconnectsthe side walls. The side walls 28 flare away from one another as theyextend inward from the outer surfaces 32 toward the bottom 30 of thefitting groove 26 so that each fitting groove has a generally dove-tailcross-sectional shape. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 2A each fittinggroove 26 has a first relatively narrower width W2 (e.g., a minimumwidth) at its entrance and a second relatively wider width W3 (e.g., amaximum width) adjacent the bottom wall 30. In general, the fittinggrooves 26 are configured for receiving a coupling component of afitting for use in attaching or securing the fitting to any one of thesides 14, 16, 18 of the strut channel 10. As explained in more detailbelow, the coupling component is configured to generally “lock” (such astwist lock) in the fitting groove to inhibit withdrawal of the fittingfrom the groove.

In the illustrated embodiment, openings 34 extend through each of thebottom walls 30 of the fitting grooves 26. The openings 34 may beconfigured for attaching the channel framing 10 to a structure (e.g., aceiling). The openings 34 may be, for example, knockouts, or punched, orhalf-slots, or slots, as are generally known in the art. Typically, theopenings 34 in the channel framing 10 will be the same type of opening,although the same channel framing may include a mix of different typesof openings, such as shown in the illustrated embodiments.

The channel framing 10 may be formed from rigid metal, such as lowcarbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or other metals, or from othermaterial, such as fiberglass or plastic. The channel framing 10 may becold formed using a rolling mill, such as when forming the channelframing from steel, or the channel framing may be extruded from anextrusion die, such as when forming the channel framing from aluminum.The channel framing 10 may be formed in other ways. The channel framing10 may have a thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 4 mm. In onenon-limiting example, the channel framing 10 may be formed from 18 gauge(1.2 mm) steel sheet metal, or from 20 gauge (0.9 mm) steel sheet metal.In another non-limiting embodiment, the dimension of each of the widthand height of the channel framing 10 may be 53.5 mm, as opposed to 50mm.

Referring to FIGS. 6-9, one embodiment of a fitting for use with thechannel framing 10 comprises a conduit clamp, generally indicated at 50,for mounting a conduit (e.g., a pipe) to the channel framing. Theconduit clamp 50 includes a pair of opposing jaws 52 secured to oneanother by a bolt 53 (or other fastener) at attached ends thereof forclamping a conduit C (FIG. 9). The jaws 52 may be formed from rigidmetal, such as low carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or othermetals, or from other material. Each jaw 52 includes a couplingcomponent 54 adjacent its free end having a generally dovetail shapecorresponding to the shapes of the fitting grooves 26.

In one embodiment, to attach the conduit clamp 50 to the channel framing10, the jaws 52 may be slid through an open end of one of the fittinggrooves 26. Alternatively, the free ends of the conduit clamp jaws 52may be pressed together, and the coupling components 54 inserted intothe fitting groove 26 so that the coupling components are oriented togeneral align with the fitting groove. After inserting the couplingcomponents 54 in the fitting groove 26 in this orientation, the conduitclamp 50 is rotated (e.g., about 90 degrees or more generally about aquarter turn), whereupon the coupling components rotate into anorientation in which they are generally perpendicular to the fittinggroove 26 to lock the coupling components and the conduit clamp 50 inthe fitting groove. The conduit C can then be inserted between the jaws52 and the bolt 53 tightened to secure the conduit to the channelframing 10. Once the conduit C is secured by the conduit clamp 50, theconduit limits rotation of the conduit clamp 50 and holds the conduitclamp in the locking orientation.

Referring to FIG. 10, another embodiment of a fitting comprises a rodhanger assembly, generally indicated at 58, for use in hanging thechannel framing 10 on a ceiling or other elevated structure. Theillustrated rod hanger assembly 58 comprises a coupling component,generally indicated at 62, and a threaded rod 63 secured to the couplingcomponent and extending outward therefrom. In the illustratedembodiment, the rod 63 is threadably attached to the coupling component62, as explained below. The rod 63 may be attached to the couplingcomponent 62 in other ways, such as by welding. Moreover, theillustrated coupling component 62 may be configured for attachment toother components, including but not limited to, a bolt or a threadedstud for attaching another component (e.g., a bracket) to the channelframing 10.

The illustrated coupling component 62 may be generally referred to as anut or a fitting-groove nut. Referring to FIGS. 11-13, the couplingcomponent 62 has a length L3 (FIG. 13), a longitudinal axis LA1, and awidth W4 (FIG. 13). The coupling component 62 includes an inside (lower)face 64, an outside (upper) face 66, opposite sides 68, and oppositeends 70. While the length L3 of the coupling component 62 is greaterthan the first or minimum widths W2 of the fitting grooves 26 at theouter surfaces 32 of the respective sides 14, 16, 18, the width W4 ofthe coupling component is less than the first widths W2 of the fittinggrooves so that the coupling component may be inserted in and installedon the any of the fitting grooves in a manner to be hereinafterdescribed.

Diagonally opposite first and second corners 74 of the couplingcomponent 62 at opposite ends 70 of the coupling component are roundedfor facilitating such installation (see FIGS. 10 and 14). Conversely,diagonally opposite third and fourth corners 76 are preferablysubstantially squared off (i.e., not rounded) to facilitate locking ofthe coupling component 62 in the fitting groove 26 and to inhibit overrotation of the coupling component in the fitting groove 26. Further,the opposite ends 70 and the first and second corners 74 of the couplingcomponent 62 are beveled or chamfered outwardly from the outside face 66toward the inside face 64, generally matching the angle of the opposingwalls 28 of the fitting grooves 26. The beveled, rounded corners 74facilitate turning the coupling component 62 to a crosswise positionrelative to the fitting groove 26 so the longitudinal axis LA1 of thecoupling component is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axisof the channel framing 10, while the beveled opposite ends 70 have ashape corresponding generally to the shape of the space between the sidewalls 28 and the bottom wall 30 of the fitting groves 26, as will bedescribed in more detail later. The coupling component 62 has a centralthreaded opening 71 extending completely through the component from itsinside face 64 to its outside face 66, thus making it a “nut,” asdisclosed above. The coupling component 62 may be formed by a stampingoperation or other suitable operation. The coupling component 62 may beformed from metal, such as a zinc-coated, heat treated, AISI 1018 steelhaving a Rockwell hardness of 30-50 C and more preferably 40-45 C. Othermaterials may be used.

To install the coupling component 62 in a fitting groove 26, thecoupling component 62 is suitably oriented so it longitudinal axis LA1is generally aligned with the fitting groove, entered into and passedthrough the fitting grooves until the inside face 64 of the couplingcomponent generally bottoms out in the groove. The coupling component 62is then turned (rotated) about 90 degrees (or about a quarter turn) in afirst direction (e.g., clockwise as viewed in FIG. 14) so that therespective rounded, beveled corners 74 slide past the side walls 28 ofthe fitting groove as the longitudinal axis LA1 of the couplingcomponent is rotated into a position in which it is generallyperpendicular to the fitting grove 26 and the longitudinal axis of thechannel framing 10. As rotation of the coupling component 62 iscontinued, the beveled ends 70 follow the rounded, beveled corners 74 asthey move into abutting relation with the side walls 28. Furtherclockwise rotation of the coupling component 62 is prevented by theunreduced (squared off) corners 76, which assist in locking the couplingcomponent against further turning (e.g., over-rotation). When thecoupling component 62 is oriented in the locking position, its beveledends 70 may fit snugly between the flared side walls 28 and the bottomwall 30 of the fitting groove 26, and in particular, the beveled endsmay engage the flared side walls in a friction fit or press fitengagement to resist counter-rotation (i.e., counterclockwise as viewedin FIG. 14) of the coupling component once the coupling component islocked in its cross-wise position. In this example, a pair of the hangerassemblies 58 may be used to suspend the channel framing 10 from aceiling or other elevated structure, and in such applications, thechannel framing may be referred to as a trapeze support or hanger, as isgenerally known in the art. It is understood that other types ofcomponents may be secured to the framing channel 10 using the couplingcomponent 62, including a bolt that secures a bracket or other componentto the channel framing 10.

Referring to FIGS. 15-19, another embodiment of a rod hanger assembly(broadly, a fitting) is generally indicated at 79. This rod hangerassembly comprises a nut-washer assembly (broadly, a fastener assembly),generally indicated at 80, and a threaded rod 83 secured to thenut-washer assembly. As seen best in FIGS. 17-19, the nut-washerassembly 80 comprises a coupling component, generally indicated at 62(which in the illustrated embodiment is essentially identical to thecoupling component described above, and therefore it and like structuresare indicated by corresponding reference numerals); a washer, generallyindicated at 84, spaced from the coupling component 62 and adapted toengage the outside surfaces 32 of a respective side 14, 16, 18 of thechannel framing 10 at opposite sides of the corresponding fitting groove26; and a resiliently deformable element 86 interposed between andconnecting the coupling component 62 and the washer for generating aforce holding the washer and the coupling component in clampingengagement with respective outside surfaces of the corresponding side ofthe channel framing 10. As explained above, in this embodiment thecoupling component 62 is identical to the coupling component 62disclosed above, although the coupling component may be of a differentconfiguration without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Referring still to FIGS. 17-19, the washer 84 is generally rectangularor square in shape, although other shapes (e.g., polygonal, oval,circular) are possible. The washer 84 has an inside (lower) face 88, anoutside (upper) face 90, a first pair of opposing sides 92, and a secondpair of opposing sides 94. The distance d1 (FIG. 18) between the sidesof at least one pair of opposing sides (e.g., the first pair of sides92) is greater than the first or minimum widths W2 of the fittinggrooves 26 of the channel framing 10 so that the washer 84 can span thefitting groove with portions of the inside face 88 of the washercontacting the outside surfaces 32 of the corresponding side 14, 16, 18of the channel framing. The washer 84 has an unthreaded (clearance)opening 98 through it generally aligned with the threaded opening 71 inthe coupling component 62. As used herein, the term “washer” means anystructural member adapted to bridge the fitting groove 26 in the framing10, and further having an opening (e.g., 98) through it for receiving arod 83 or a fastener (e.g., a bolt) threaded into the coupling component62 or a stud (e.g., a threaded stud) extending from the couplingcomponent and the size and shape of the washer can vary as needed ordesired.

In the illustrated embodiment, the resiliently deformable element 86comprises a spring and, in particular, a coil extension spring. (Thesame spring is also illustrated in FIG. 24A.) In the illustratedembodiment, the spring 86 is a circular coil spring having helicalwinds, but it will be understood that the coil may have a shape otherthan circular (e.g., rectangular or square or oval). As see in FIG. 17,the coil spring 86 may have a lower extended portion 99 firmly fixed(e.g., staked) in one of a pair of linear grooves 100 (see also FIG. 12)in the outside face 66 of the coupling component 62 and extending towardthe inside face 64 of the coupling component. Further, as seen in FIGS.17 and 19 the spring 86 may have an upper extended portion 101 firmlyfixed (e.g., staked) in linear groove 102 in the washer 84, or otherwisesecured to the washer. The portions 99, 101 of the spring 86 may befirmly (preferably immovably) fixed to the washer 84 and the couplingcomponent 62, respectively, by adhesive, welding, brazing, or othermeans. Other configurations are possible. The spring 86 is made ofsuitable wire, such as 1.25 mm wire formed from a zinc-coated ASTM 1566metal alloy having a Rockwell hardness in the range of 45-50 C. Othermaterials may be used.

The spring 86 allows relative movement between the coupling component 62and the washer 84 generally along an axis A1 (e.g., an axis of thespring; see FIGS. 18 and 20). The spring 86 also provides a biasingforce urging the coupling component 62 and the washer 84 toward oneanother. As explained in detail below, this extension of the spring 86generates a force which clamps the washer 84 and coupling component 62against respective outside faces 32 of the corresponding side 14, 16, 18and the side walls 28 of the corresponding fitting groove 26 to hold thenut-washer assembly 80 in the desired or selected position on theframing 10 until an object (e.g., threaded rod 83 or other component) issecured to the assembly.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, to install the nut-washer assembly 80 onthe channel framing 10, the coupling component 62 is aligned with,entered into and passed through fitting groove 26 from the outside tothe inside thereof until portions of the inside face 88 of the washer 84adjacent opposite sides thereof contact (or nearly contact) the outsidesurface 32 of corresponding side 14, 16, 18 of the framing. Once thecoupling component 62 is at the bottom 30 of the fitting groove 26, thenut-washer assembly 80 is then turned (rotated) in a first direction(e.g., clockwise), suitably using the washer 84 as a handle, to bringthe rounded, beveled corners 74 (e.g., ramps) of the coupling component62 into contact with the flared side walls 28 of the fitting groove 26.Applying a further rotational force on the coupling component 62 willcause the spring 86 to extend and the flared side walls 28 to ride uprespective beveled, rounded corners 74 (e.g., ramps) of the couplingcomponent 62, thereby increasing the distance between the opposing faces66, 88 of the coupling component 62 and the washer 84, respectively.Rotation of the coupling component 62 is continued in the same directionthrough about 90 degrees (e.g., about a quarter turn) until the couplingcomponent extends crosswise relative to the fitting groove 26 and thebeveled ends 70 are in abutting relation with the opposing side walls 28defining the fitting groove and the inside face 64 of the couplingcomponent is at the bottom 30 of the fitting groove. The beveled,rounded corners 74 of the coupling component 62 facilitate rotation ofthe coupling component to this crosswise position, with further rotationbeing prevented by the unreduced (squared off) corners 76 which assistin holding the coupling component against further turning. After thecoupling component 62 has been turned to this crosswise position, thewasher 84 is released by the user. The extended spring 86 exerts a forcewhich urges the washer 84 and coupling component 62 toward one anotherto bring the beveled sides 70 of the coupling component into clampingengagement with the flared side walls 28 of the fitting groove 26 andportions of the inside face 88 of the washer 84 into clamping engagementwith the outside surfaces 32 of the corresponding side 14, 16, 18. Thenut-washer assembly 80 may be quickly and easily removed from theframing 10 (as for reuse) by simply reversing the steps as set outabove.

After the nut-washer assembly 80 is installed on the channel framing 10,a component (e.g., the rod 83) can be secured to the nut-washer assembly(or alternatively, the component may be secured to the nut-washerassembly before the nut-washer assembly is installed on the channelframing). In the illustrated example, the rod 83 is inserted through theopening 98 in the washer 84 and threaded into the opening 71 in thecoupling component 62. The coupling component 62 is prevented fromturning relative to the framing 10 by contact of the square (unreduced)corners 76 of the coupling component with the flared side walls 28.

Referring to FIG. 20, in another example a different component 105(e.g., a bracket) can be secured to the framing 10 using the nut-washerassembly 80. In one embodiment, the nut-washer assembly 80 is insertedin the fitting groove 26 in the manner described above. A threadedfastener 106 (e.g., a bolt) is inserted through an opening 107 in thecomponent 105 and the opening 98 in the washer 84 and threaded theopening 71 in the coupling component 62. The threaded fastener 106 istightened to bring an opposing surface of the component 105 intofrictional clamping engagement with serrations 111 (or other roughformations; see FIG. 18) on the outside face 90 of the washer 84, and tobring the coupling component 62 and the washer into an even moreforceful clamping engagement with the framing 10.

As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, in one embodiment the nut-washer assembly80 may also be configured for attachment to the upper side 12 of theframing 10. That is, the nut-washer assembly 80 is configured forinsertion in the continuous slot 19 and for clamping engagement with thelips 20. The method of attaching the nut-washer assembly 80 to the upperside 12 of the framing 10 may be substantially the same as attaching thenut-washer to the other sides 14, 16, 18, with the exception that thecorners 76 will not inhibit over-rotation of the coupling component 62(i.e., will not inhibit rotation of the coupling component past 90degrees or a quarter turn).

Referring to FIGS. 21-23, another embodiment of coupling component isgenerally indicated at 62′. This coupling component 62′ is similar tothe coupling component 62, with like and/or identical structuresindicated by corresponding reference numerals plus a prime symbol. Inparticular, the coupling component 62′ has a length L3′, a longitudinalaxis LA1′, and a width W4′. The coupling component 62′ includes aninside (lower) face 64′, an outside (upper) face 66′, opposite sides68′, and opposite ends 70′. While the length L3′ of the couplingcomponent 62′ is greater than the first widths W2 of the fitting grooves26 at the outer surfaces 32 of the respective sides 14, 16, 18, thewidth W4′ of the coupling component is less than the first widths W2 ofthe fitting grooves so that the coupling component may be inserted inand installed on the any of the fitting grooves in a manner to behereinafter described. Diagonally opposite first and second corners 74′of the coupling component 62′ at opposite ends 70′ of the couplingcomponent are rounded for facilitating such installation. Diagonallyopposite third and fourth corners 76′ are preferably substantiallysquared off (i.e., not rounded) to facilitate locking of the couplingcomponent 62′ in the fitting groove 26. Further, the opposite ends 70′and the first and second corners 74′ of the coupling component 62′ arebeveled or chamfered outwardly from the upper face 66′ toward the lowerface 64′. The beveled, rounded corners 74′ facilitate turning thecoupling component 62′ to a crosswise position relative to the fittinggroove 26, while the beveled opposite ends 70′ have a shapecorresponding generally to the shape of the space between the side walls28 and the bottom wall 30 of the fitting groves 26, as will be describedin more detail later. The coupling component 62′ has a central threadedopening 71′ extending completely through the component from its insideface 64′ to its outside face 66′, thus making it a “nut,” as disclosedabove. The coupling component 62′ may be formed by a stamping operationor other suitable operation. The coupling component 62′ may be formedfrom metal, such as a zinc-coated, heat treated, AISI 1018 steel havinga Rockwell hardness of 30-50 C and more preferably 40-45 C. Othermaterials may be used.

Unlike the first embodiment of the coupling component 62, the presentcoupling component 62′ includes a projection 120 extending outwardlyfrom the upper face 66′ and a recess 122 in the upper face. Theprojection 120 extends from adjacent one of the corners 76′ along thecorresponding one of the opposite ends 70′, and the recess 122 extendsfrom adjacent the other diagonally opposite corner 76′ along the otheropposite end 70′. As seen in FIGS. 24 and 24A, two of the couplingcomponents 62′ may be stacked so that the respective outside faces 66′are opposing and in engagement with one another to form a double or dualcoupling component assembly, generally indicated at 130. In thisconfiguration, the projections 120 on the respective the couplingcomponents 62′ are received in the corresponding recesses 122 of thecoupling components.

The dual coupling component assembly 130 can be combined with a washer(e.g., washer 84), a resilient member (e.g., spring 86), and a fastener(e.g., bolt 124) to form another embodiment of a fitting, generallyindicated at 150 in FIGS. 24 and 24A. The washer 84, the spring 86, andthe bolt 124 may be identical to the like components in the embodimentshown in FIG. 17 and described above. The spring 86 is secured to anupper one of the coupling components 62′ and the washer 84, such as inways described above, to interconnect the upper coupling component andthe washer. The bolt 124 is inserted through the opening 98 in thewasher 84 and thread into the aligned threaded openings 71′ of the twocoupling components 62′ of the dual coupling component assembly 130 tohold the fitting 150 in an assembly.

In one method, the fitting 150 can be used to connect two pieces ofchannel framing 10 to one another in a side-by-side configuration, asshown in FIGS. 25-27. It is understood that the fitting 150 can be usedto secure any one of the sides 14, 16, 18 of a first channel framing 10to any one of the sides 14, 16, 18 of another channel framing. Moreover,more than two pieces of channel framing 10 may be secured together. Inan exemplary method, the fitting 150 is inserted into the interior 22 ofa first one of the channel framings 10, such as by inserting the fittingthrough the continuous slot 19 defined in the upper side 12. The dualcoupling component assembly 130 of the fitting 150 is then inserted inone of the fitting grooves 26 through one of the slot-shaped openings 34extending through the bottom 30 of the corresponding fitting groove. Thewidths W4′ of the coupling components 62′ (together defining the widthof the dual coupling component assembly 130) are less than the width W5of the slot-shaped opening 34 in the bottom wall 30 and the widths W2,W3 of the fitting groove 26 so that dual coupling component assembly canbe inserted through the slot-shaped opening and into the fitting groovefrom the interior 22 of the channel framing 10. In particular, the firstcoupling component 62′ will be received in the fitting groove 26 and thesecond coupling component 62′ will extend out of the groove. In oneembodiment, the washer 84 is dimensioned (i.e., has suitable length andwidth) so that the washer will not enter the slot-shaped opening 34after the dual coupling component assembly 130 is inserted therethrough.Upon inserting the dual coupling component assembly 130 in the fittinggroove 26 of the first channel framing 10, a second channel framing 10can be brought into side-by-side arrangement with the first piece ofchannel framing, whereupon the second coupling component 62′ enters thefitting groove 26 of the second channel framing 10. With the pieces ofchannel framing in a side-by-side arrangement and the dual couplingcomponent 130 received in both fitting grooves 26, the fitting 150 isturned about 90 degrees (i.e., about a quarter turn) to simultaneouslylock each of the coupling components 62′ in respective fitting grooves26 in the same manner as described above with respect to couplingcomponent 62. The bolt 124 is then tightened to clamp the bottom wall 30between the washer 84 and the dual coupling component 130, which alsoimparts friction between the washer and the bottom wall to inhibitrotation of the fitting 150 relative to the channel framing 10. As aresult, the first and second coupling components 62′ are inhibited fromrotating relative to the respective fitting grooves 26 to inhibit thecoupling components 62′ from inadvertently disengaging from therespective channel framings 10.

Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, another embodiment of a couplingcomponent, which itself may be a fitting, is generally indicated at 170.The coupling component 170 comprises an elongate body, generallydesignated 172, that is generally in the form of a block. The body 172has opposite faces 174, opposite sides 176, and a length L4 extendingbetween opposite ends 178. The body 172 has double or dual dovetailcross-sectional shape corresponding generally to the shape of opposingfitting grooves 26 when two pieces of channel framing 10 are arrangedside-by-side, as shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, for example. In particular,the body 172 is sized and shaped for sliding in an open end of thefitting groove(s) 26 at the ends of the channel framings 10. One or moreopenings 180 (e.g., three openings in the present embodiment) extendthrough the opposite faces 174. These openings 180 may be threaded, forreasons explained in more detail below. In the illustrated embodiment, aplurality of openings 180 are spaced apart along the length L4 of thebody 172.

Referring to FIGS. 30 and 31, in one embodiment the coupling component170 is used as an insert to connect two pieces of channel framing 10side-by-side. The coupling component 170 is inserted into two opposingfitting grooves 26 of two side-by-side pieces of channel framing 10.Additional pieces of channel framing 10 may be connected using one ormore additional similar coupling components 170. The openings 34 (e.g.,slot-shaped openings) in the bottom walls 30 of the correspondingfitting grooves 26 and one of the openings 180 in the body 172 may bealigned so that a fastener (e.g., a bolt, not shown) may be insertedthrough the aligned openings. A head of the bolt may engage one of thebottom walls 30 inside the interior 22 of one of the correspondingframing 10, and a nut (not shown) may be threaded on the terminal end ofthe bolt in engagement with the other bottom wall 30 inside the interiorof the other piece of framing 10. In another embodiment, the openings180 may be threaded and fasteners (e.g., a bolt, not shown) may bethreaded into one or more of the openings 180 to secure the pieces ofchannel framing 10 to the coupling component 170. Other ways of securingthe framing 10 to the coupling component 170 do not depart from thescope of the present invention.

In another embodiment, the coupling component 170 may be used as thecoupling component of another embodiment of a rod hanger assembly.Referring to FIGS. 32-35, a pair of rod hanger assemblies (broadly,fittings), each of which is generally indicated at reference numeral190, suspends a framing 10 from a ceiling or other elevated structure.Each rod hanger assembly 190 comprises a coupling component 170, asdescribed above, and a threaded rod 194 threaded in one of the openings180 (i.e., threaded openings) in the body 172 of the coupling component170. Each coupling component 170 is inserted into one of the open endsof one of the fitting grooves 26 of the framing 10. A fastener 198(e.g., a set screw or bolt) may be threaded through one of the openings180 (an innermost opening) of each coupling component 170, asillustrated in FIG. 33, and engage a bottom wall 30 of the respectivegroove 26 to inhibit lengthwise movement of the coupling component 170in the groove. The rods 194 are threaded into openings 180 (anintermediate opening) in the coupling components 170.

In one embodiment, a method of hanging the channel framing 10 from aceiling or other elevated structure includes inserting a single couplingcomponent 170 or a pair of coupling components into one of the fittinggrooves 26 so that ends of the coupling component(s) 170 extend outwardfrom open ends of the grooves, and in particular, so at least oneopening 180 in each coupling component is accessible. Next, the couplingcomponent(s) 170 may be secured to the channel framing 10 using thefasteners 198. Then, the rods 194 can be threaded into the accessibleopenings 180 on either end of the channel framing 10. Other ways ofhanging the channel framing 10 using the rod hanger assemblies 190 donot depart from the scope of the present invention.

As can be seen in FIG. 36, another piece of channel framing 10 can beconnected to the coupling component(s) 170 so that two pieces of channelframing are hung from the rod hanger assemblies 190. Further, additionalrod hanger assemblies 190 can depend from the first rod hangerassemblies by threading the rods 194 of the additional rod hangerassemblies into the available threaded openings 180 in the couplingcomponents 170. As a result, additional pieces of channel framing 10 canbe positioned within the same vertical plane, as seen in FIG. 36.

Another embodiment of a fitting for use with the channel framing 10 isgenerally indicated at reference numeral 200 in FIGS. 37-41. The fitting200 is generally in the form of a clip that is adapted to connect twopieces of channel framing 10 to one another in a side-by-sidearrangement. The illustrated embodiment comprises two fittings 200 onopposite sides (e.g., right and left sides 16, 18) of the respectivepieces of framing 10. As seen in FIG. 41, each fitting 200 comprises anelongate body having a central portion 202, and two clip arms or jaws204 (broadly, coupling components) extending outward from opposite sidesof the body. The clip arms 204 are configured to engage respectiveflared side walls 28 of adjacent fitting grooves 26 of the two pieces ofchannel framing 10, as seen in FIG. 38. In particular, the clip arms 204clip or hook into the adjacent fitting grooves 26 of the two adjacentframings 10 and the central portion 202 spans across the correspondingoutside surfaces 32 of the framings between the adjacent fitting groovesto hold the pieces of framing 10 in the side-by-side arrangement.

In one example, the fitting 200 may be configured to slide onside-by-side pieces of framing 10 by inserting the fitting 200 into thegrooves 26 at the open ends of the grooves at the ends of the framings.In another example, the fitting 200 may be resiliently deflectable andconfigured as a snap-fit component so the arms 204 can be snappeddirectly into the fitting grooves 26 at an intermediate point betweenthe ends of the channel framings 10 without accessing either end of theframings. In another embodiment, the fitting 200 may be snapped intoposition on side-by-side pieces of framing 10 at an intermediate pointbetween the ends thereof by inserting one of the clip arms 204 into oneof the fitting grooves 26. A force in the direction of outside surfaces32 of the side-by-side pieces of framing 10 is then applied to centralportion 202, whereupon the free clip arm 204 and the central portion areresiliently deflected in a direction away from the outside surfaces ofthe pieces of framing. A continued application of force results in thefree clip arm 204 sliding past the edge between the correspondingoutside surface 32 and the flared side wall 28 defining the fittinggroove 26, whereupon the fitting 200 rebounds to its non-deflectedconfiguration, and the corresponding clip arm 204 snaps into the fittinggroove. The fitting 200 may be formed from metal, such as steel, springsteel, or aluminum, or from other materials.

Referring to FIGS. 42-49, another embodiment of a fitting for thechannel framing 10 is generally indicated at reference numeral 250. Asshown in FIGS. 48-49, the fitting 250 is configured for securement tothe side 12 of the framing 10 defining the continuous slot 19 so thatthe fitting spans across the slot. As explained in more detail below,the fitting 250 may be used to add rigidity to the framing 10 and/or toprovide additional fastening members for securing components to the slotside 12 of the framing.

Referring to FIGS. 42 and 43, the fitting 250 comprises separate upper(or outer) and lower (or inner) components, generally indicated at 254,256, respectively, each of which is configured for attachment (e.g.,snap-fit attachment) to one of the right and left sides 16, 18 of theframing 10 and for spanning across the slot 19. Referring to FIGS. 47and 48, the lower component 256 includes a clip arm or jaw 260 (broadly,a coupling component) for attachment within the groove 26 of one of theright and left sides 16, 18 of the framing 10, and an extension member262 extending outward from the clip arm for spanning at least part ofthe way across the slot 19. The clip arm 260 is configured to engage orhook around the outer surface 32 into the fitting groove 26 (e.g.,adjacent one of the flared side walls 28) on one side (e.g., side 16 asillustrated), as seen in FIG. 48, and extend from the fitting groovealong the corresponding outer surface 32 toward the slotted side 12 ofthe channel framing 10. The extension member 262 has a width W6 (FIG.47) sufficient to span at least part way across the slot 19 of the side12. As illustrated, for instance, the width W6 is sufficient to span allthe way across the slot 19. The illustrated extension member 262 has arib 266 extending lengthwise that is adapted for reception in the slot19 generally adjacent one of the lips 20 of the side 12 adjacent theclip arm 260 to inhibit disengagement of the clip arm 260 from thechannel framing 10. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment the lowercomponent 256 includes a fastening member, generally indicated at 268(e.g., one or more nuts), on an inner face (i.e., a side facing thechannel framing 10) of the extension member 262. The one or morefastening members 268 are aligned with openings 270 extending throughthe extension member 262. The fastening member 268 may be formedintegrally with the lower component 256, or as a separate component. Theone or more fastening members 268 extend into the slot 19 of the side 12when the fitting 250 is secured to the framing 10.

Referring to FIGS. 44 and 45, the upper component 254 includes a cliparm or jaw 280 (broadly, a coupling component) for attachment within thegroove 26 of one of the right and left sides 16, 18 of the framing 10,and an extension member 282 extending outward from the clip arm forspanning at least part of the way across the slot 19. The clip arm 280is configured to engage or hook around the outer surface 32 into thecorresponding fitting groove 26 (e.g., adjacent the one of the flaredside walls 28), as seen in FIG. 49, and extend from the fitting groovealong the corresponding outside surface 32 of the side (e.g., the leftside 18) toward the slotted side 12 of the channel frame 10. Theextension member 282 has a width W7 sufficient to span across the slot19 of the side 12. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, thewidth W7 is sufficient to span all the way across the slot 19. Theextension member 282 is stepped outwardly from the clip arm 280 (e.g.,the extension member has a stepped portion) to allow nesting of theextension members 262, 282 of the lower and upper components 256, 254,respectively, over the slot 19. As a result, the upper and lower members282, 262 of the lower and upper components 256, 254, respectively,define a generally planar inner surface, generally indicated at 290, ofthe fitting 250 that lies generally flat on the outer surfaces 13 of theslotted side 12. The extension member 282 defines at least one opening292. When the fitting 250 is assembled on the framing 10, the at leastone opening 292 is aligned generally with the one or more openings 270and the one or more fastening members 268 of the lower component 256.

The upper and lower components 254, 256 of the fitting 250 may be formedfrom metal, such as spring steel, or other metals, or from othermaterial. The components 254, 256 may be cold formed using a rollingmill or may be formed in other ways. For example, the strut channel 10may be rolled from 12 gauge (2.6 mm), or 14 gauge (1.9 mm), or 16 gauge(1.5 mm) sheet metal.

In one embodiment, the fitting 250 is installed on the framing 10 bysnap-fitting the upper and lower components 254, 256 on respective sides16, 18. In one example, the lower component 256 is first snap-fitted orclipped on the side 16 by inserting the clip arm 260 into the fittinggroove 26 so that the clip arm engages the flared side wall 28 adjacentthe side 12. With the clip arm 260 hooked on the flared side wall 28,the extension member 262 is moved (i.e., pivoted) toward the slot 19 ofthe side 12, whereupon the clip arm 260 deflects and then rebounds(e.g., snaps) to its non-deflected configuration after the clip armsubstantially clears the edge between the outside surface of the side 12and the outside surface 32 of the side 16. After the lower component 254is installed, the upper component 256 is installed in a similar mannerby hooking the clip arm 280 on the flared side wall 28 of the left side18 and then moving (i.e., pivoting) the extension member 282 toward theslot 19 of the side 12, whereupon the clip arm 280 deflects and thenrebounds (e.g., snaps) to its non-deflected configuration after the cliparm substantially clears the edge between the outside surface of theside 12 and the outside surface 32 of the side 18. When both components254, 256 are installed, the respective extension members 282, 262 aregenerally nested or stacked over the slot 19. A component, such as a rodor a bolt (not shown), can be inserted through the aligned openings 292,270 in the components 254, 256 and threaded into the fastening member(s)268 to secure the component to the framing 10.

Referring to FIGS. 50-55, another embodiment of a fitting for use withthe channel framing 10 is generally indicated at reference numeral 300.The fitting 300 is generally in the form of a clip that is adapted toconnect two pieces of channel framing 10 to one another in aside-by-side arrangement. The clip 300 is substantially identical to theclip 200 described above except as noted. The clip 300 is configured tofacilitate snapping the clip into the fitting grooves 26 of each of theadjacent channel framings 10. This makes it easier to install the clip300 without accessing the ends of the channel framings 10 and slidingthe clip along the fitting grooves 26 thereof. For example, the arms 302of the clip 300 extend inward (e.g., for extending around the edge ofthe surfaces 32 into the fitting grooves 26) to a lesser extent at oneend 306 of the clip than the other 308. Tapered lead-ins 310 at thetruncated end 306 of the clip extend progressively farther inward asthey extend away from the truncated end of the clip. For example, thelength L52A of the tapered lead-ins is suitably in the range of about ⅓to about ¼ the length of the total length L52B of the arms 302, althoughratios outside this range are also possible. The taper angle A53 (FIG.53) of the tapered lead-ins is suitably in the range of 5-15 degrees(e.g., about 10 degrees).

The clip 300 has a dimple 312 at the end of the clip opposite thetapered lead-ins. The dimple 312 is suitably sized and shaped forproviding a surface 314 for catching the end of a tool, such as a flathead screwdriver. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 55, the dimple 312has a shallow end 314 and a deep end 316. The deep end 316 is suitablycloser to the end 308 of the clip 300 than the shallow end. A wall 318at the deep end 316 of the dimple forms an abutting surface suitably forcatching the tool. For example, as illustrated, the wall 318 issubstantially orthogonal to the upper surface 320 of the clip 300.

A handle 330 is formed at the end 306 of the clip 300 opposite thedimple 312 for manually grasping the clip to facilitate removal of theclip from the fitting grooves 26 of the channel framings 10. Asillustrated in FIG. 53, the handle 330 suitably extends up from theupper surface 320 of the clip at an angle A53′ (e.g., about 30 degrees).The handle 330 in the illustrated embodiment includes a pair of wings334 on opposite sides of a central portion 332 of the handle. The widthof the central handle portion 332 is suitably about equal to the widthof the upper surface 320 of the clip 300 so an edge 342 of the centralportion of the handle 330 is connected continuously to an edge 344 ofthe upper surface 320 of the clip (e.g., along a bend line 346), asillustrated in FIG. 51. The wings 334 are suitably bent back anadditional amount (e.g., about 30 degrees) from the central portion 332of the handle 330.

To use the clip 300, a user places two channel framings 10 side-by-sideas illustrated in FIG. 50. The user then uses the lead-ins 310 toposition the truncated end 306 of the clip 300 over the adjacentsurfaces 32 of the channel framings 10 and begins pressing the clip intothe fitting grooves 26. The clip 300 is initially oriented so the end308 of the clip having the dimple 312 thereon is spaced farther from thechannel framings 10 than the lead-ins 310 so the lead-ins are the firstpart of the clip to engage the channel framings. As the clip 300 isprogressively pressed and rotated to bring the end 308 of the cliphaving the dimple 312 thereon closer toward the channel framings 10 sothe arms 302 of the clip extend farther into the fitting grooves 26,channel framings are drawn closer and tighter toward one another. Theclip 300 is suitably designed so a significant amount of force isrequired to snap the clip onto the channel framings 10, and also so asignificant amount of force is required to unsnap the clip to separatethe channel framings. In some cases it may be desirable to use a tool(e.g., screwdriver) to help tap on the clip 300 and snap it all the wayinto position. The dimple 312 can be used to receive the end of such atool and a user can tap the opposite end of the tool (e.g., using thepalm of his or her hand or a hammer) while it is received in the dimpleto help snap the clip 300 into place.

If it is ever desirable to remove the clip 300, a user suitably grabsthe clip by the handle 330 and uses the handle to pull the clip off thechannel framings 10. Because the lead-ins 310 do not extend as far intothe fitting grooves 26 it can be easier to start unsnapping the clipfrom the end 306 having the lead-ins. For example, the user pulls thehandle 330 to rotate the adjacent end 306 of the clip 300 away from thechannel framings 10 to pull the lead-ins 310 out of the fitting grooves26 first. Then, by continuing to pull on the handle 330 and/orcontinuing to rotate the clip 300, the rest of the clip can beprogressively withdrawn from the fitting groove 26 to separate the clipfrom channel framings 10.

Another clip, which may be substantially identical to the clip 300described herein can be installed on the opposite side of the channelframings 10 to hold the other sides of the channel framings together.Additional clips, which can also be substantially identical to the clip300 described above, can be installed along different axial segments ofthe channel framings 10 if desired or necessary for additional support.

Referring to FIGS. 56-59, another embodiment of a fitting for use withthe channel framing 10 is generally indicated at reference numeral 400.The fitting 400 is generally in the form of a clip that is substantiallyidentical to the clip 300 described above except as noted. The clip 400does not include any handle 330. Instead, a portion of the upper surfaceof the clip 400 at the end opposite the dimple 312 is raised to form apocket 404 for receiving the end of a tool (e.g., screwdriver) tofacilitate removal of the clip from the channel framings 10. The pocket404 is suitably sized and shaped to receive the end of a flatheadscrewdriver. For example, the pocket 404 is suitably tapered inward fromits open end to generally conform to the shape of a flatheadscrewdriver.

The clip 400 is suitably installed in substantially the same manner asthe clip 300 described above. If it is desired to remove the clip 400from the channel framings 10, a user suitably inserts the end of a tool(e.g., flathead screwdriver or other similar tool) into the pocket 404and uses the tool to pry the clip off the channel framings 10.

Another embodiment of a hanger assembly, generally designated 500, isillustrated in FIGS. 60-69. The hanger assembly 500 is similar to thehanger assembly 58 described above and illustrated in FIG. 10, exceptthat it uses a different fitting 502 instead of the coupling component62 of the hanger 58 described earlier. The fitting 502 is similar to thefitting 250 described earlier and illustrated in FIG. 42 except asnoted. In particular, the fitting has separate upper (or outer) andlower (or inner) components, generally indicated at 504, 506,respectively, each of which is configured for attachment (e.g., snap-fitattachment) to one of the sides 12, 14, 16, 18 of the framing 10 and forspanning across the fitting groove 26, or the slot 19, as the case maybe in a manner generally similar to the fitting 250 described above. Theinner 506 and outer 504 components also overlap one another as they spanthe fitting groove 26 or slot 19. Fingers 512 and 516 extend down at theends of the outer and inner components 504, 506, respectively. The innercomponent 506 suitably has slots 514 for receiving the fingers 512 onthe end of the outer component. For reasons that will become clear, theslots 514 are wider than the width of the fingers 512 to allow relativemovement of the fingers in the slots.

An inclined surface 522 on the inner surface of the outer component 504is positioned to engage an inclined surface 526 on the outer surface ofthe inner component 506, as illustrated in FIGS. 64-66. In particular,the inclined surfaces 522, 526 are arranged so when the inner and outercomponents 506, 504 are squeezed vertically toward one another (e.g.,using a nut) reaction forces at the inclined surfaces due to theinteraction of the components at the inclined surfaces tend to draw thecomponents closer to one another laterally. In the illustratedembodiment, for example the inclined surfaces 522, 526 are produced byforming dimples 520, 524 in the outer and inner components 504, 506. Itis recognized that there are other ways to form inclined surfaces withinthe broad scope of the invention. As illustrated, each component 504,506 has a pair of dimples 520, 524. Referring to FIG. 66, the dimples520 in the outer component 504 are offset laterally from the dimples 524in the inner component 506 (e.g., 15-30 thousandths of an inch).

To install the fitting 500, the inner component 506 is snapped intoposition as illustrated in FIG. 67. Then the outer component 504 issnapped into position over the inner component, as illustrated in FIG.68. When the inner and outer components 506, 504 are in position on thechannel framing 10, a component, such as a threaded rod 63 or a bolt(not shown), can be inserted through the aligned openings 530, 528 inthe components 506, 504 and threaded into the fastening member(s) 532 tosecure them to the framing 10. A nut (not shown) on the threaded rod 63can be used to tighten the components 504, 506 against one another. Asthe nut is tightened, the components 504, 506 are drawn laterally towardone other (as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 66) due to the inclinedsurfaces 522, 526 of the dimples 520, 524 until enough of the offset inthe positions of the dimples is eliminated to allow the dimples to nestwithin one another. When the components 504, 506 of the fitting aresecured in this manner it is very unlikely that the components willbecome accidentally dislodged from the channel framing 10.

Referring now to FIG. 70, the hanger assembly 500′ is illustrated in adifferent configuration in which the fitting 502 is installed on theside 12 of the framing 10 having the open slot 19 instead of a fittinggroove 26. The fitting 502 operates in substantially the same manner inthis configuration 500′ of the hanger assembly 500, except the fingers512, 516 extend into the slot 19 instead of the fitting groove 26. Theframing 10 and fitting 502 are dimensioned relative to one another sothere is a little bit of space between at least one of the set offingers 512, 516 and the lips 20 defining the sides of the slot 19. Upontightening the nut on the rod 63 to squeeze the components 504, 506together and draw them laterally inward toward one another, the framingis suitably compressed until the lips 20 abut against the fingers 512,516 at which point the fingers of the components 504, 506 limit furthercompression of the framing. In this position, the fingers 512, 516 onthe components 504, 506 provide additional structural stability to thehanger assembly 500′.

Another embodiment of a hanger assembly 500″ is illustrated in FIGS. 71and 72. It is substantially similar to the hanger assembly 500 describedabove, except that the coupling component 506″ does not include anintegral threaded fastener like 532 on 506. One of the couplingcomponents 62 described above is positioned under the inner component506″ so its opening 71 is in alignment with the openings 528, 530 of thefitting components 504, 506″. The opening 71 in the coupling component62 receives the end of the threaded rod 63. The coupling component 62 issuitably locked in the fitting groove 26 as described above. A threadednut or washer (not shown) on the rod 63 can be used to tighten thecomponents 504, 506″ against the coupling component 62.

Referring to FIGS. 73-75, another embodiment of a fitting including thedual coupling component assembly 130 described above is generallydesignated 600. The fitting 600 is substantially identical to thefitting 150 described above except as noted. The washer 602 is similarto the washer 84 described above except that the washer 62 includes apair of tabs 604 extending down from the opposite sides of the washer62. As illustrated in FIG. 74, the tabs 604 extend down past at leastthe adjacent surface 64′ of the coupling component 62′ to which it iscoupled by the spring 86. The tabs 604 are suitably positioned generallysymmetrically at diagonally opposite corners of the washer 602. The tabs604 have inwardly facing surfaces 606 that are generally parallel to oneanother. The tabs 604 are suitably spaced from one another a distancethat is about equal to the width of the fitting groove 26 of the channelframing 10 plus the thickness of the material used to make the channelframing. When the washer 602 is attached to the dual coupling componentassembly 130, as illustrated in FIG. 74, the tabs 604 are positionedoutside and spaced from the opposite sides 70′ of the adjacent couplingcomponent 62′.

The fitting 600 can be used to connect two pieces of channel framing 10to one another in a side-by-side configuration, as shown in FIGS. 76-78,in substantially the same way as the fitting 150 described above. Whenthe fitting 600 is installed in this manner, the tabs 604 on the washer602 fit over the sides of the internally extending rail 610 formed bythe contours of the channel framing 10 on the inside of the fittinggroove 26. Because the tabs 604 extend over the sides of the rail 610,the tabs 604 limit rotation of washer 602. For example, if the washer602 begins to rotate in either direction, the tabs 604 will collide withthe rail 610 and block further rotation of the washer 602. This helpskeep the washer 602 generally in its intended orientation as the bolt612 securing the coupling components 62′ is tightened. Because thespring 86 is attached to the washer 602 as well as one of the couplingcomponents 62′ having the washer in the correct orientation also helpsensure the coupling components 62′ do not accidentally rotate out ofposition.

As can be seen from the above disclosure, in at least some embodimentstwo or more pieces of channel framing can be readily and easily securedto one another using one or more of the fittings disclosed above. Forexample, the two or more pieces of channel framing can be readilycombined at the job site, without the need to have the pieces of channelframing welded to one another. Thus, workers at the job site have theflexibility to assemble channel framing assemblies by themselves,according to the needs at the job site. Furthermore, the workers canalso quickly and easily disassemble and re-use pieces of channel framingthat were assembled at the job site.

In addition, as can also be seen from the above disclosure, in at leastsome embodiments one or more sides of the channel framing, in additionto the slotted side having the continuous slot opening (e.g., side 12),can be used to connect components (e.g., hanger rods, pipes, etc.) tothe channel framing. In one particular application, the side oppositethe slotted side (e.g., side 14) can be used to connect desiredcomponents to the channel framing. Moreover, the side 12 of the channelframing 10 having the slot 19 can have the same configuration as theslotted sides of conventional channel framings to make the systemsdescribed herein compatible with existing channel nuts, pipe clamps,miscellaneous fitting, etc.

When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferredembodiments(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” areintended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms“comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive andmean that there may be additional elements other than the listedelements.

In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of theinvention are achieved and other advantageous results attained.

As various changes could be made in the above constructions, products,and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it isintended that all matter contained in the above description and shown inthe accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and notin a limiting sense.

What is claimed is:
 1. A fitting for connecting first and second piecesof channel framing to one another, wherein each piece of channel framingincludes an elongate channel framing body having opposite longitudinalends, a length extending between the opposite longitudinal ends, aninterior surface defining an open interior extending lengthwise of thebody, and a fitting side defining an external fitting groove extendinglengthwise of the body, the fitting comprising: a coupling componenthaving first and second coupling portions, the first coupling portionhaving a dovetail cross-sectional shape which tapers toward the secondcoupling portion, the second coupling portion having a dovetailcross-sectional shape which tapers toward the first coupling portion andis inverted relative to the first coupling portion, wherein the firstand second coupling portions are fixed to one another to inhibitrelative rotation between the first and second coupling portions,wherein the first coupling portion is configured for reception in thefitting groove of the first piece of channel framing, and the secondcoupling portion is configured for reception in the fitting groove ofthe second piece of channel framing to connect the first and secondpieces of channel framing to one another such that the fitting sides ofthe first and second pieces of channel framing are juxtaposed and faceone another; and a washer secured to the coupling component andconfigured to engage the interior surface of the fitting side of thefirst piece of channel framing when the first and second couplingportions of the coupling component are received in the respectivefitting grooves of the first and second pieces of channel framing. 2.The fitting set forth in claim 1, further comprising a resilientlydeformable element interposed between and connecting the couplingcomponent and the washer, the resiliently deformable element configuredto generate a force to clamp the fitting side of the first piece ofchannel framing between the washer and the coupling component.
 3. Thefitting set forth in claim 1, wherein the coupling component comprises anut, the nut defining a threaded opening for receiving a threadedfastener.
 4. The fitting set forth in claim 3, wherein the washerdefines a through opening generally aligned with the threaded openingdefined by the nut.
 5. The fitting set forth in claim 1, wherein thecoupling component comprises first and second nuts secured to oneanother, wherein the first nut defines the first coupling portion andthe second nut defines the second coupling portion.
 6. The fitting setforth in claim 1, in combination with the first and second pieces ofchannel framing, wherein the first coupling portion is secured withinthe fitting groove of the first piece of channel framing, and the secondcoupling portion is secured within the fitting groove of the secondpiece of channel framing to connect the first and second pieces ofchannel framing to one another such that the fitting sides of the firstand second pieces of channel framing are juxtaposed and face oneanother.
 7. The fitting in combination with the first and second piecesof channel framing set forth in claim 6, wherein each fitting groove ofthe first and second pieces of channel framing has a dovetailcross-sectional shape.
 8. The fitting in combination with the first andsecond pieces of channel framing set forth in claim 6, wherein thefitting includes a washer secured to the coupling component and engagingan interior surface of the fitting side of the first piece of channelframing.
 9. The fitting in combination with the first and second piecesof channel framing set forth in claim 6, wherein the first piece ofchannel framing defines a fitting opening extending through the fittingside from the interior surface to the fitting groove, wherein thefitting extends through fitting opening.
 10. The fitting in combinationwith the first and second pieces of channel framing set forth in claim9, wherein the fitting includes a stop configured to limit rotation ofthe coupling component within the respective fitting grooves of thefirst and second pieces of channel framing.
 11. The fitting incombination with the first and second pieces of channel framing setforth in claim 8, wherein the fitting includes a resiliently deformableelement interposed between and connecting the coupling component and thewasher, the resiliently deformable element configured to generate aforce to clamp the fitting side of the first piece of channel framingbetween the washer and the coupling component.
 12. A method ofassembling a channel framing assembly, the method comprising: providinga first piece of channel framing including an elongate first channelframing body having opposite longitudinal ends, a length extendingbetween the opposite longitudinal ends, an interior surface defining anopen interior, a fitting side defining an external fitting grooveextending lengthwise of the first channel framing body, and a slottedside defining an elongate slot extending lengthwise of the first channelframing body and into the open interior of the first channel framingbody; providing a second piece of channel framing including an elongatesecond channel framing body having opposite longitudinal ends, a lengthextending between the opposite longitudinal ends, an open interior, afitting side defining an external fitting groove extending lengthwise ofthe second channel framing body, and a slotted side defining an elongateslot extending lengthwise of the second channel framing body and intothe open interior of the second channel framing body; providing afitting including a coupling component having first and second couplingportions, the first coupling portion having a dovetail cross-sectionalshape which tapers toward the second coupling portion, the secondcoupling portion having a dovetail cross-sectional shape which taperstoward the first coupling portions and is inverted relative to the firstcoupling portion, wherein the first and second coupling portions arefixed to one another to inhibit relative rotation between the first andsecond coupling portions, wherein the first coupling portion isconfigured for reception in the fitting groove of the first piece ofchannel framing, and the second coupling portion is configured forreception in the fitting groove of the second piece of channel framingto connect the first and second pieces of channel framing to one anothersuch that the fitting sides of the first and second pieces of channelframing are juxtaposed and face one another, and a washer secured to thecoupling component and configured to engage the interior surface of thefitting side of the first piece of channel framing when the first andsecond coupling portions of the coupling component are received in therespective fitting grooves of the first and second pieces of channelframing; and connecting, using the fitting, the first and second piecesof channel framing to one another such that the fitting sides of thefirst and second pieces of channel framing are juxtaposed and face oneanother, wherein said connecting the first and second pieces of channelframing to one another includes inserting the first coupling portion ofthe coupling component within the fitting groove of the first piece ofchannel framing, inserting the second coupling portion of the couplingcomponent within the fitting groove of the second piece of channelframing, and engaging the interior surface of the fitting side of thefirst piece of channel framing with the washer secured to the couplingcomponent when the first and second coupling portions of the couplingcomponent are received in the respective fitting grooves of the firstand second pieces of channel framing.
 13. The method of assembling achannel framing assembly set forth in claim 12, wherein the first pieceof channel framing defines a fitting opening extending through thefitting side from the interior surface to the fitting groove, whereinsaid connecting the first and second pieces of channel framing to oneanother includes inserting the fitting into the open interior of thefirst piece of channel framing and then inserting the coupling componentthrough the fitting opening and into the fitting groove of the firstpiece of channel framing.
 14. The method of assembling a channel framingassembly set forth in clam 13, further comprising rotating the couplingcomponent, after said inserting the first coupling portion of thecoupling component and after said inserting the second coupling portionof the coupling component, to lock the coupling component in therespective first and second fitting grooves of the first and secondpieces of channel framing.
 15. A fitting for connecting first and secondpieces of channel framing to one another, wherein each piece of channelframing includes an elongate channel framing body having oppositelongitudinal ends, a length extending between the opposite longitudinalends, an interior surface defining an open interior extending lengthwiseof the body, and a fitting side defining an external fitting grooveextending lengthwise of the body, the fitting comprising: a couplingcomponent having first and second coupling portions, the first couplingportion having a dovetail cross-sectional shape which tapers toward thesecond coupling portion, the second coupling portion having a dovetailcross-sectional shape which tapers toward the first coupling portion andis inverted relative to the first coupling portion, wherein the firstand second coupling portions are fixed to one another to inhibitrelative rotation between the first and second coupling portions,wherein the first coupling portion is configured for reception in thefitting groove of the first piece of channel framing, and the secondcoupling portion is configured for reception in the fitting groove ofthe second piece of channel framing to connect the first and secondpieces of channel framing to one another such that the fitting sides ofthe first and second pieces of channel framing are juxtaposed and faceone another, wherein the coupling component is elongate having oppositelongitudinal ends and a length extending between the oppositelongitudinal ends, each of the first and second coupling portions of thecoupling component being slidably insertable lengthwise into therespective fitting grooves of the first and second pieces of channelframing through open groove ends of the fitting grooves, wherein thecoupling component defines a fastener opening configured to receive afastener to fasten the coupling component to the pieces of channelframing.
 16. The fitting set forth in claim 15, in combination with thefirst and second pieces of channel framing, wherein the first couplingportion is secured within the fitting groove of the first piece ofchannel framing, and the second coupling portion is secured within thefitting groove of the second piece of channel framing to connect thefirst and second pieces of channel framing to one another such that thefitting sides of the first and second pieces of channel framing arejuxtaposed and face one another.
 17. The fitting in combination with thefirst and second pieces of channel framing set forth in claim 16,further comprising a fastener received in the fastener opening, whereinthe fastener fastens the coupling component to the first piece ofchannel framing.
 18. The fitting set forth in claim 1, furthercomprising a threaded fastener securing the washer to the couplingcomponent.
 19. Channel framing assembly comprising: first and secondpieces of channel framing, wherein each of the first and second piecesof channel framing includes an elongate channel framing body havingopposite longitudinal ends, a length extending between the oppositelongitudinal ends, an interior surface defining an open interiorextending lengthwise of the body, and a fitting side defining anexternal fitting groove extending lengthwise of the body: and a fittingconnecting the first and second pieces of channel framing to oneanother, the fitting comprising a coupling component having first andsecond coupling portions, the first coupling portion having a dovetailcross-sectional shape which tapers toward the second coupling portion,the second coupling portion having a dovetail cross-sectional shapewhich tapers toward the first coupling portion and is inverted relativeto the first coupling portion, wherein the first and second couplingportions are fixed to one another to inhibit relative rotation betweenthe first and second coupling portions, wherein the first couplingportion is configured for reception in the fitting groove of the firstpiece of channel framing, and the second coupling portion is configuredfor reception in the fitting groove of the second piece of channelframing to connect the first and second pieces of channel framing to oneanother such that the fitting sides of the first and second pieces ofchannel framing are juxtaposed and face one another, wherein the firstcoupling portion is secured within the fitting groove of the first pieceof channel framing, and the second coupling portion is secured withinthe fitting groove of the second piece of channel framing to connect thefirst and second pieces of channel framing to one another such that thefitting sides of the first and second pieces of channel framing arejuxtaposed and face one another, wherein the fitting includes a washersecured to the coupling component and engaging an interior surface ofthe fitting side of the first piece of channel framing.